In recent months, the spectre of delinquent and corrupt cops within the PDRM force has cast a shadow over the institution’s longstanding reputation. While instances of misconduct and corruption have unfortunately been a part of the police force’s history, the issue has gained heightened attention in the public in recent times.
Cases ranging from abuse of power to involvement in serious crimes have come to light, triggering a wave of public concern and calls for stringent measures to address internal malfeasance.
This surge in awareness has sparked a renewed focus on the need for accountability and transparency within the ranks of Malaysia’s law enforcement.
“Not To Worry” – IGP
Tan Sri Razarudin Husain
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, has issued a statement acknowledging the issue, revealing that approximately 2% of the police force, or around 2,740 out of 137,000 personnel, were found to have committed wrongdoings last year. As concerns mount, the top brass grapples with ways to restore public trust and confidence in the police force.
Tan Sri Razarudin expressed his exasperation and concern over the recent surge in negative press surrounding the police force. He revealed that disciplinary actions, including pay cuts, demotions, suspensions, and dismissals, have been taken against officers involved in various wrongdoings.
Moreover, several police officers faced charges in court for committing serious crimes, perpetuating the tarnishing of the police force's image. Razarudin emphasized that a small percentage of rogue cops are responsible for bringing ill repute to the entire institution as opposed to what the public may perceive.
He said the police Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (JIPS) would continue to root out delinquent personnel. The IGP also has issued out directives to all District Police Chiefs nationwide, urging them to supervise their officers and members closely. He emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to procedures and instructions, asserting that every officer and personnel has pledged an oath to steer clear of criminal activities.
Razarudin assured the public that any instances of cops' wrongdoing would undergo transparent investigation, reinforcing the commitment to accountability and justice.
Cops Misconduct That Has Shaken Our Community
Image is for illustration purposes only
In light of this hot debate, some of the cases that have been garnering attention from the public are about a police officer physically assaulting a citizen in public to the recent apprehension of two patrol officers – a constable and a lance corporal – suspected of being involved in the robbery and rape of a private college student in Bukit Ampang View.
Makin hari makin teruk eh ?
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The viral video of a cop assaulting a citizen in public
Selangor Police Chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan confirmed that the two patrol officers were suspended pending the completion of the investigation into the case. Meanwhile, the cop who was caught physically assaulting a citizen in Johor has been transferred to another department until the investigation is concluded.
The infamous hit-and-run case in Ipoh involving a cop and a Form 5 student that ended with a fatality has been the talk of the town, and the public is supporting the victim’s family – demanding justice to be served for the innocent boy.
These cases have heightened concerns about the integrity and professionalism of the police force – putting pressure on the institution for a reform.
Know Your Rights
Amidst the growing concerns about police misconduct, it is crucial to highlight the rights of the public when encountering or being stopped by police officers. Citizens have the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the right to be treated with respect and dignity.
Any use of excessive force, harassment or intimidation is not only ethically wrong but also goes against the principles of justice and human rights.
Malaysian Bar has conveniently compiled a handbook on the procedures or steps you can take if you ever find yourself in an alarming situation with the police.
A TLDR for those who are too busy to read through the handbook:
1. What do you need to do if the police stop you?
Ask for the police to show their authority card. Police officers are issued a blue or yellow authority card – depending on their ranks. You are obliged to provide your IC and/or driving license when required. Failure to do so can get you fined or arrested without a warrant. So, don’t forget to carry your IC and driving license wherever you go!
If the officer showed a red authority card, the officer is a Suspended Police Officer, and they have no authority to stop or detain you. Be sure to make a note of the officer’s name and ID for precautions.
Do note that auxiliary police (polis bantuan) also possess authority cards issued by the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) in either blue or yellow according to their ranks. Auxiliary police have all the existing powers of a regular police under the RMP. However, the exception is that they can exercise these powers only within the boundaries of their respective employing agencies.
For instance, auxiliary police officers are usually employed by financial institutions, mass transit operators, corporate entities, government-linked agencies, shopping malls and public utility services. Hence, their powers are limited to their grounds only.
You can read more detailed information on auxiliary police and their power yield here.
2. What if the police are arresting you?
You should ask what offence you’re being arrested for and which police station they’re taking you to. You’re not allowed to resist an arrest, but it’s unlawful if you don’t know the reason for it.
So, be sure to ask on what grounds they are arresting you and request to see the arrest warrant before letting them detain you.
If they fail to procure the arrest warrant and have no grounds to detain you, you can refuse to follow them.
3. They cannot detain you if you’re a witness for a case
However, refusing to cooperate is, in fact, an offence. The police can then issue a formal written order signed by an investigating officer to ask you to cooperate or request the Magistrate to issue a warrant against you to cooperate.
You’re allowed to ask for a lawyer’s accompaniment when you are being investigated, as the police may take down your answers.
These situations are non-exhaustive, and there may be specific, additional consequences or fines if you break the law under some circumstances.
An informative video by Vulcan Post
Despite the recent challenges, IGP Razarudin reassured the public that the police force maintains an unwavering stance against criminal activities within its ranks. He urged the public to place their trust in the police force, promising transparent investigations into any allegations of misconduct.
As the police force works to address internal issues, there is hope that the institution will regain its status as a trusted and respected guardian of public safety. In the spirit of accountability and transparency, the commitment to weeding out corruption and criminal activities within the police ranks is crucial for rejuvenating the institution and reestablishing its esteemed status in the eyes of the Malaysian public.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments!
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to PDRM & various cross-references for context.
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